Steerable laser probe

ABSTRACT

A steerable laser probe may include an actuation structure, a nosecone fixed to the actuation structure by one or more links and one or more link pins, a housing tube having a first housing tube portion with a first stiffness and a second housing tube portion with a second stiffness, and an optic fiber disposed in the housing tube and the actuation structure. A compression of the actuation structure may be configured to gradually curve the housing tube and the optic fiber. A decompression of the actuation structure may be configured to gradually straighten the housing tube and the optic fiber.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Application is a continuation of prior application Ser. No.13/961,952 filed Aug. 8, 2013.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a surgical instrument, and, moreparticularly, to a steerable laser probe.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A wide variety of ophthalmic procedures require a laser energy source.For example, ophthalmic surgeons may use laser photocoagulation to treatproliferative retinopathy. Proliferative retinopathy is a conditioncharacterized by the development of abnormal blood vessels in the retinathat grow into the vitreous humor. Ophthalmic surgeons may treat thiscondition by energizing a laser to cauterize portions of the retina toprevent the abnormal blood vessels from growing and hemorrhaging.

In order to increase the chances of a successful laser photocoagulationprocedure, it is important that a surgeon is able aim the laser at aplurality of targets within the eye, e.g., by guiding or moving thelaser from a first target to a second target within the eye. It is alsoimportant that the surgeon is able to easily control a movement of thelaser. For example, the surgeon must be able to easily direct a laserbeam by steering the beam to a first position aimed at a first target,guide the laser beam from the first position to a second position aimedat a second target, and hold the laser beam in the second position.Accordingly, there is a need for a surgical laser probe that can beeasily guided to a plurality of targets within the eye.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure presents a steerable laser probe. Illustratively,a steerable laser probe may comprise an actuation structure, a noseconefixed to the actuation structure by one or more links and one or morelink pins, a housing tube having a first housing tube portion with afirst stiffness and a second housing tube portion with a secondstiffness, and an optic fiber disposed in the housing tube and theactuation structure. In one or more embodiments, a compression of theactuation structure may be configured to gradually curve the housingtube. Illustratively, a gradual curving of the housing tube may beconfigured to gradually curve the optic fiber. In one or moreembodiments, a demo compression of the actuation structure may beconfigured to gradually straighten the housing tube. Illustratively, agradual straightening of the housing tube may be configured to graduallycurve the optic fiber.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and further advantages of the present invention may be betterunderstood by referring to the following description in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals indicateidentical or functionally similar elements:

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of a handleassembly;

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle;

FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are schematic diagrams illustrating a housing tube;

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly;

FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, and 5E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber;

FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber;

FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle;

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a housing tube;

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly;

FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, and 10E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber;

FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, and 11E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of a handleassembly 100. Illustratively, a handle assembly 100 may comprise anosecone 105 having a nosecone distal end 106 and a nosecone proximalend 107, an actuation structure 110 having an actuation structure distalend 111 and an actuation structure proximal end 112, a front plug 115, adistal ring 116, a proximal ring 117, an outer sleeve 120 having anouter sleeve distal end 121 and an outer sleeve proximal end 122, anactuation guide 130 having an actuation guide distal end 131 and anactuation guide proximal end 132, an inner hypodermic tube 140 having aninner hypodermic tube distal end 141 and an inner hypodermic tubeproximal end 142, a piston 150 having a piston distal end 151 and apiston proximal end 152, an end plug 160 having an end plug distal end161 and an end plug proximal end 162, one or more links 170, one or morespacers 175, and one or more link pins 180. In one or more embodiments,nosecone 105, actuation structure 110, front plug 115, outer sleeve 120,actuation guide 130, inner hypodermic tube 140, piston 150, and end plug160 may be manufactured from any suitable material, e.g., polymers,metals, metal alloys, etc., or from any combination of suitablematerials.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle 200. FIG.2A illustrates a side view of a handle 200. Illustratively, handle 200may comprise a handle distal end 201 and a handle proximal end 202. Inone or more embodiments, a portion of nosecone 105 may be fixed to aportion of actuation structure 110, e.g., nosecone proximal end 107 maybe fixed to actuation structure distal end 111. Illustratively, nosecone105 may be fixed to actuation structure 110, e.g., by one or more links170. In one or more embodiments, one or more link pins 180 may beconfigured to fix nosecone 105 to one or more links 170, e.g., aparticular link pin 180 may be disposed within nosecone 105 and aparticular link 170. Illustratively, one or more link pins 180 may beconfigured to fix actuation structure 110 to one or more links 170,e.g., a particular link pin 180 may be disposed within actuationstructure 110 and a particular link 170. In one or more embodiments, afirst link pin 180 may be configured to fix nosecone 105 to a particularlink 170 and a second link pin 180 may be configured to fix actuationstructure 110 to the particular link 175. Illustratively, one or morespacers 175 may be configured to prevent undesirable movement of one ormore links 170 relative to one or more link pins 180, e.g., a particularspacer 175 may be disposed over a portion of a particular link pin 180extending from a particular link 170.

In one or more embodiments, a portion of inner hypodermic tube 140 maybe disposed within piston 150, e.g., inner hypodermic tube proximal end142 may be disposed within piston 150. Illustratively, a portion ofinner hypodermic tube 140 may be fixed within piston 150, e.g., by anadhesive or any suitable fixation means. In one or more embodiments,inner hypodermic tube proximal end 142 may be fixed within piston 150,e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. Illustratively,actuation guide 130 may be disposed within outer sleeve 120. In one ormore embodiments, actuation guide 130 may be fixed within outer sleeve120, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means.Illustratively, piston 150 may be disposed within actuation guide 130.In one or more embodiments, piston 150 may be configured to actuatewithin actuation guide 130.

In one or more embodiments, distal ring 116 may be disposed over aportion of front plug 115. Illustratively, front plug 115 may beconfigured to interface with a portion of outer sleeve 120, e.g., frontplug 115 may be configured to interface with outer sleeve distal end121. In one or more embodiments, front plug 115 may be configured tointerface with a portion of actuation guide 130, e.g., front plug 115may be configured to interface with actuation guide distal end 131.Illustratively, front plug 115 may be disposed within outer sleeve 120.In one or more embodiments, a portion of front plug 115 may be disposedwithin actuation guide 130. Illustratively, distal ring 116 may bedisposed within actuation guide 130, e.g., distal ring 116 may beconfigured to form a hermetic seal within actuation guide 130.

In one or more embodiments, proximal ring 117 may be disposed over aportion of end plug 160. Illustratively, end plug 160 may be configuredto interface with a portion of outer sleeve 120, e.g., end plug 160 maybe configured to interface with outer sleeve proximal end 122. In one ormore embodiments, end plug 160 may be configured to interface with aportion of actuation guide 130, e.g., end plug 160 may be configured tointerface with actuation guide proximal end 132. For example, a portionof end plug 160 may be disposed within actuation guide 130.Illustratively, proximal ring 117 may be disposed within actuation guide130, e.g., proximal ring 117 may be configured to form a hermetic sealwithin actuation guide 130. In one or more embodiments, end plug 160 maybe disposed within outer sleeve 120. Illustratively, inner hypodermictube 140 may be disposed within piston 150, actuation guide 130, frontplug 115, distal ring 116, and nosecone 105. In one or more embodiments,a portion of inner hypodermic tube 140 may be fixed within nosecone 105,e.g., inner hypodermic tube distal end 141 may be fixed within nosecone105. Illustratively, a portion of inner hypodermic tube 140 may be fixedwithin nosecone 105, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixationmeans.

In one or more embodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 maybe configured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more linkpins 180. Illustratively, a rotation of one or more links 170 about oneor more link pins 180 may be configured to extend a particular link pin180, e.g., a particular link pin 180 disposed in nosecone 105, relativeto handle proximal end 202. In one or more embodiments, an extension ofa particular link pin 180 disposed in nosecone 105 relative to handleproximal end 202 may be configured to extend nosecone 105 relative tohandle proximal end 202. Illustratively, a compression of actuationstructure 110 may be configured to extend nosecone 105 relative tohandle proximal end 202. In one or more embodiments, an extension ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured toextend inner hypodermic tube 140 relative to handle proximal end 202.Illustratively, an extension of inner hypodermic tube 140 relative tohandle proximal end 202 may be configured to actuate piston 150 withinactuation guide 130. In one or more embodiments, a compression ofactuation structure 110 may be configured to extend piston 150 relativeto handle proximal end 202.

In one or more embodiments, a decompression of action structure 110 maybe configured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more linkpins 180. Illustratively, a rotation of one or more links 170 about oneor more link pins 180 may be configured to retract a particular link pin180, e.g., a particular link pin 180 disposed in nosecone 105, relativeto handle proximal end 202. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofa particular link pin 180 disposed in nosecone 105 relative to handleproximal end 202 may be configured to retract nosecone 105 relative tohandle proximal end 202. Illustratively, a decompression of actuationstructure 110 may be configured to retract nosecone 105 relative tohandle proximal end 202. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured toretract inner hypodermic tube 140 relative to handle proximal end 202.Illustratively, a retraction of inner hypodermic tube 140 relative tohandle proximal end 202 may be configured to actuate piston 150 withinactuation guide 130. In one or more embodiments, a decompression ofactuation structure 110 may be configured to retract piston 150 relativeto handle proximal end 202.

FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a handle 200. In one ormore embodiments, handle 200 may comprise an optic fiber housing 210, aninner bore 220, an optic fiber guide 230, and a housing tube housing240. Illustratively, handle 200 may be manufactured from any suitablematerial, e.g., polymers, metals, metal alloys, etc., or from anycombination of suitable materials.

FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are schematic diagrams illustrating a housing tube300. In one or more embodiments, housing tube 300 may comprise a housingtube distal end 301 and a housing tube proximal end 302. Housing tube300 may be manufactured from any suitable material, e.g., polymers,metals, metal alloys, etc., or from any combination of suitablematerials. Illustratively, housing tube 300 may be manufactured withdimensions configured for microsurgical procedures. FIG. 3A illustratesa housing tube 300 oriented to illustrate a first housing tube portion320. Illustratively, first housing tube portion 320 may have a firststiffness. FIG. 3B illustrates a housing tube 300 oriented to illustratea second housing tube portion 330. Illustratively, second housing tubeportion 330 may have a second stiffness. In one or more embodiments, thesecond stiffness may be greater than the first stiffness.Illustratively, first housing tube portion 320 may comprise a firstmaterial having a first stiffness. In one or more embodiments, secondhousing tube portion 330 may comprise a second material having a secondstiffness. Illustratively, the second stiffness may be greater than thefirst stiffness.

In one or more embodiments, housing tube 300 may comprise a non-uniforminner diameter or a non-uniform outer diameter, e.g., to vary astiffness of one or more portions of housing tube 300. Illustratively, afirst housing tube portion 320 may comprise a first inner diameter ofhousing tube 300 and a second housing tube portion 330 may comprise asecond inner diameter of housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments,the first inner diameter of housing tube 300 may be larger than thesecond inner diameter of housing tube 300. Illustratively, a firsthousing tube portion 320 may comprise a first outer diameter of housingtube 300 and a second housing tube portion 330 may comprise a secondouter diameter of housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, thefirst outer diameter of housing tube 300 may be smaller than the secondouter diameter of housing tube 300.

In one or more embodiments, first housing tube portion 320 may compriseone or more apertures configured to produce a first stiffness of firsthousing tube portion 320. Illustratively, second housing tube portion330 may comprise a solid portion of housing tube 300 having a secondstiffness. In one or more embodiments, the second stiffness may begreater than the first stiffness. Illustratively, first housing tubeportion 320 may comprise one or more apertures configured to produce afirst stiffness of first housing tube portion 320. In one or moreembodiments, second housing tube portion 330 may comprise one or moreapertures configured to produce a second stiffness of second housingtube portion 330. Illustratively, the second stiffness may be greaterthan the first stiffness.

In one or more embodiments, first housing tube portion 320 may comprisea plurality of slits configured to separate one or more solid portionsof housing tube 300. Illustratively, a plurality of slits may be cut,e.g., laser cut, into first housing tube portion 320. In one or moreembodiments, first housing tube portion 320 may comprise a plurality ofslits configured to minimize a force of friction between housing tube300 and a cannula, e.g., as housing tube 300 is inserted into thecannula or as housing tube 300 is extracted from the cannula. Forexample, each slit of the plurality of slits may comprise one or morearches configured to minimize a force of friction between housing tube300 and a cannula.

FIG. 3C illustrates an angled view of housing tube 300. Illustratively,an optic fiber 310 may be disposed within housing tube 300. In one ormore embodiments, optic fiber 310 may comprise an optic fiber distal end311 and an optic fiber proximal end 312. Illustratively, optic fiber 300may be configured to transmit light, e.g., laser light, illuminationlight, etc. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may be disposedwithin housing tube 300 wherein optic fiber distal end 311 may beadjacent to housing tube distal end 301. Illustratively, optic fiber 310may be disposed within housing tube 300 wherein a portion of optic fiber310 may be adjacent to a portion of first housing tube portion 320. Inone or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed to aninner portion of housing tube 300, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitablefixation means.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly 400. In one or more embodiments, asteerable laser probe assembly 400 may comprise a handle 200, a housingtube 300 having a housing tube distal end 301 and a housing tubeproximal end 302, an optic fiber 310 having an optic fiber distal end311 and an optic fiber proximal end 312, and a light source interface410. Illustratively, light source interface 410 may be configured tointerface with optic fiber 310, e.g., at optic fiber proximal end 312.In one or more embodiments, light source interface 410 may comprise astandard light source connecter, e.g., an SMA connector.

Illustratively, a portion of housing tube 300 may be fixed to nosecone105, e.g., housing tube proximal end 302 may be fixed to nosecone distalend 106. In one or more embodiments, a portion of housing tube 300 maybe fixed to nosecone 105, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixationmeans. Illustratively, a portion of housing tube 300 may be disposedwithin nosecone 105, e.g., housing tube proximal end 302 may be disposedwithin nosecone 105. In one or more embodiments, a portion of housingtube 300 may be fixed within nosecone 105, e.g., by an adhesive or anysuitable fixation means. Illustratively, a portion of housing tube 300may be disposed within housing tube housing 240, e.g., housing tubeproximal end 302 may be disposed within housing tube housing 240. In oneor more embodiments, a portion of housing tube 300 may be fixed withinhousing tube housing 240, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixationmeans. For example, a portion of housing tube 300 may be fixed withinhousing tube housing 240 by a press fit, a weld, etc.

Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may be disposed within inner bore 220,optic fiber guide 230, optic fiber housing 210, piston 150, innerhypodermic tube 140, nosecone 105, and housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, optic fiber 310 may be disposed within housing tube 300wherein optic fiber distal end 311 is adjacent to housing tube distalend 301. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may be disposed within housingtube 300 wherein a portion of optic fiber 310 is adjacent to firsthousing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, a portion of opticfiber 310 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., by anadhesive or any suitable fixation means. Illustratively, a portion ofoptic fiber 310 may be fixed in a position relative to handle proximalend 202. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may be fixed withinoptic fiber housing 210, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixationmeans. For example, optic fiber 310 may be fixed within optic fiberhousing 210 by a press fit, a setscrew, etc. Illustratively, a firstportion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed in optic fiber housing 210 and asecond portion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed to a portion of housingtube 300.

In one or more embodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 maybe configured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more linkpins 180. Illustratively, a rotation of one or more links 170 about oneor more link pins 180 may be configured to extend nosecone 105 relativeto handle proximal end 202. In one or more embodiments, an extension ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured toextend housing tube 300 relative to handle proximal end 202.Illustratively, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to handleproximal end 202 may be configured to extend housing tube 300 relativeto optic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber310, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300, maybe configured to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative tooptic fiber 310. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may be fixed withinoptic fiber housing 210 and optic fiber 310 may be fixed to housing tube300. In one or more embodiments, an extension of housing tube 300relative to optic fiber 310 may be configured to apply a force to aportion of housing tube 300. Illustratively, an application of a forceto a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured to compress a portionof housing tube 300, e.g., an application of a force to a portion ofhousing tube 300 may be configured to compress first housing tubeportion 320. In one or more embodiments, a compression of a portion ofhousing tube 300 may be configured to cause housing tube 300 togradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube 300may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310. In one or moreembodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 may be configuredto gradually curve optic fiber 310. Illustratively, a compression ofactuation structure 110 may be configured to gradually curve housingtube 300.

In one or more embodiments, a decompression of actuation structure 110may be configured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more linkpins 180. Illustratively, a rotation of one or more links 170 about oneor more link pins 180 may be configured to retract nosecone 105 relativeto handle proximal end 202. In one or more embodiments, a refraction ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured toretract housing tube 300 relative to handle proximal end 202.Illustratively, a retraction of housing tube 300 relative to handleproximal end 202 may be configured to retract housing tube 300 relativeto optic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber310, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300, maybe configured to facilitate a retraction of housing tube 300 relative tooptic fiber 310. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may be fixed withinoptic fiber housing 210 and optic fiber 310 may be fixed to housing tube300. In one or more embodiments, a retraction of housing tube 300relative to optic fiber 310 may be configured to reduce a force appliedto a portion of housing tube 300. Illustratively, a reduction of a forceapplied to a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured to decompressa portion of housing tube 300, e.g., a reduction of a force applied to aportion of housing tube 300 may be configured to decompress firsthousing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, a decompression ofa portion of housing tube 300 may be configured to cause housing tube300 to gradually straighten. Illustratively, a gradual straightening ofhousing tube 300 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber310. In one or more embodiments, a decompression of actuation structure110 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310.Illustratively, a decompression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to gradually straighten housing tube 300.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, and 5E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber 310. FIG. 5A illustrates a straightoptic fiber 500. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 maycomprise a straight optic fiber 500, e.g., when housing tube 300 isfully retracted relative to optic fiber 310. Illustratively, optic fiber310 may comprise a straight optic fiber 500, e.g., when actuationstructure 110 is fully decompressed. In one or more embodiments, opticfiber 310 may comprise a straight optic fiber 500, e.g., when nosecone105 is fully retracted relative to handle proximal end 202. For example,optic fiber 310 may comprise a straight optic fiber 500, e.g., whenfirst housing tube portion 320 is fully decompressed. Illustratively, aline tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a linetangent to housing tube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310comprises a straight optic fiber 500.

FIG. 5B illustrates an optic fiber in a first curved position 510. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from a straight opticfiber 500 to an optic fiber in a first curved position 510.Illustratively, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more link pins180. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of one or more links 170about one or more link pins 180 may be configured to extend nosecone 105relative to handle proximal end 202. Illustratively, an extension ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured toextend housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber 310. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber310 may be configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300 may beconfigured to apply a force to housing tube 300. Illustratively, anapplication of a force to a portion of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to compress a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., firsthousing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, a compression of aportion of housing tube 300 may be configured to cause housing tube 300to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from astraight optic fiber 500 to an optic fiber in a first curved position510. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distalend 311 may intersect a line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302 ata first angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in afirst curved position 510. In one or more embodiments, the first anglemay comprise any angle greater than zero degrees. For example, the firstangle may comprise a 45 degree angle.

FIG. 5C illustrates an optic fiber in a second curved position 520. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiber in afirst curved position 510 to an optic fiber in a second curved position520. Illustratively, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more link pins180. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of one or more links 170about one or more link pins 180 may be configured to extend nosecone 105relative to handle proximal end 202. Illustratively, an extension ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured toextend housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber 310. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber310 may be configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300 may beconfigured to apply a force to housing tube 300. Illustratively, anapplication of a force to a portion of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to compress a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., firsthousing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, a compression of aportion of housing tube 300 may be configured to cause housing tube 300to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from anoptic fiber in a first curved position 510 to an optic fiber in a secondcurved position 520. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to opticfiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent to housing tubeproximal end 302 at a second angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprisesan optic fiber in a second curved position 520. In one or moreembodiments, the second angle may comprise any angle greater than thefirst angle. For example, the second angle may comprise a 90 degreeangle.

FIG. 5D illustrates an optic fiber in a third curved position 530. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiber in asecond curved position 520 to an optic fiber in a third curved position530. Illustratively, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more link pins180. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of one or more links 170about one or more link pins 180 may be configured to extend nosecone 105relative to handle proximal end 202. Illustratively, an extension ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured toextend housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber 310. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber310 may be configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300 may beconfigured to apply a force to housing tube 300. Illustratively, anapplication of a force to a portion of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to compress a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., firsthousing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, a compression of aportion of housing tube 300 may be configured to cause housing tube 300to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from anoptic fiber in a second curved position 520 to an optic fiber in a thirdcurved position 530. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to opticfiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent to housing tubeproximal end 302 at a third angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprisesan optic fiber in a third curved position 530. In one or moreembodiments, the third angle may comprise any angle greater than thesecond angle. For example, the third angle may comprise a 135 degreeangle.

FIG. 5E illustrates an optic fiber in a fourth curved position 540. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiber in athird curved position 530 to an optic fiber in a fourth curved position540. Illustratively, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more link pins180. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of one or more links 170about one or more link pins 180 may be configured to extend nosecone 105relative to handle proximal end 202. Illustratively, an extension ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured toextend housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber 310. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber310 may be configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300 may beconfigured to apply a force to housing tube 300. Illustratively, anapplication of a force to a portion of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to compress a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., firsthousing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, a compression of aportion of housing tube 300 may be configured to cause housing tube 300to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from anoptic fiber in a third curved position 530 to an optic fiber in a fourthcurved position 540. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to opticfiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a line tangent to housing tubeproximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber ina fourth curved position 540.

In one or more embodiments, one or more properties of a steerable laserprobe may be adjusted to attain one or more desired steerable laserprobe features. Illustratively, a length that housing tube distal end301 extends from nosecone distal end 106 may be adjusted to vary anamount of compression of actuation structure 110 configured to curvehousing tube 300 to a particular curved position. In one or moreembodiments, a stiffness of first housing tube portion 320 or astiffness of second housing tube portion 330 may be adjusted to vary anamount of compression of actuation structure 110 configured to curvehousing tube 300 to a particular curved position. Illustratively, amaterial comprising first housing tube portion 320 or a materialcomprising second housing tube portion 330 may be adjusted to vary anamount of compression of actuation structure 110 configured to curvehousing tube 300 to a particular curved position.

In one or more embodiments, a number of apertures in housing tube 300may be adjusted to vary an amount of compression of actuation structure110 configured to curve housing tube 300 to a particular curvedposition. Illustratively, a location of one or more apertures in housingtube 300 may be adjusted to vary an amount of compression of actuationstructure 110 configured to curve housing tube 300 to a particularcurved position. In one or more embodiments, a geometry of one or moreapertures in housing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary an amount ofcompression of actuation structure 110 configured to curve housing tube300 to a particular curved position. Illustratively, a geometry of oneor more apertures in housing tube 300 may be uniform, e.g., eachaperture of the one or more apertures may have a same geometry. In oneor more embodiments, a geometry of one or more apertures in housing tube300 may be non-uniform, e.g., a first aperture in housing tube 300 mayhave a first geometry and a second aperture in housing tube 300 may havea second geometry. Illustratively, a geometry or location of one or moreapertures in housing tube 300 may be optimized to evenly distribute anapplied force. For example, a geometry or location of one or moreapertures in housing tube 300 may be optimized to evenly distribute aforce applied to first housing tube portion 320.

Illustratively, a stiffness of first housing tube portion 320 or astiffness of second housing tube portion 330 may be adjusted to vary abend radius of housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a stiffnessof first housing tube portion 320 or a stiffness of second housing tubeportion 330 may be adjusted to vary a radius of curvature of housingtube 300, e.g., when housing tube 300 is in a particular curvedposition. Illustratively, a number of apertures in housing tube 300 maybe adjusted to vary a bend radius of housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, a number of apertures in housing tube 300 may be adjustedto vary a radius of curvature of housing tube 300, e.g., when housingtube 300 is in a particular curved position. Illustratively, a locationor a geometry of one or more apertures in housing tube 300 may beadjusted to vary a bend radius of housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, a location or a geometry of one or more apertures inhousing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary a radius of curvature ofhousing tube 300, e.g., when housing tube 300 is in a particular curvedposition.

In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber 310 may beenclosed in an optic fiber sleeve configured to, e.g., protect opticfiber 310, vary a stiffness of optic fiber 310, vary an optical propertyof optic fiber 310, etc. Illustratively, an optic fiber sleeve may beconfigured to compress a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., firsthousing tube portion 320. For example, an optic fiber sleeve may bedisposed over a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed within optic fiberhousing 210 and the optic fiber sleeve may be disposed over a portion ofoptic fiber 310 fixed to a portion of housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 may be configuredto extend housing tube 300 relative to the optic fiber sleeve.Illustratively, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to the opticfiber sleeve may cause the optic fiber sleeve to apply a force to aportion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320.Illustratively, an application of a force to a portion of housing tube300 may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube 300 causinghousing tube 300 to gradually curve.

Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may comprise a buffer, a claddingdisposed in the buffer, and a core disposed in the cladding. In one ormore embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber 310 may comprise abuffer configured to protect an optical property of optic fiber 310.Illustratively, at least a portion of optic fiber 310 may comprise abuffer configured to protect an optical layer of optic fiber 310, e.g.,the buffer may protect an optical layer of a curved portion of opticfiber 310. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber310 may comprise a polyimide buffer configured to protect an opticalproperty of optic fiber 310. For example, at least a portion of opticfiber 310 may comprise a Kapton buffer configured to protect an opticalproperty of optic fiber 310.

Illustratively, a steerable laser probe may be configured to indicate,e.g., to a surgeon, a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve, e.g.,due to a compression of actuation structure 110. In one or moreembodiments, a portion of a steerable laser probe, e.g., handle 200, maybe marked in a manner configured to indicate a direction that opticfiber 310 may curve. For example, a portion of housing tube 300 maycomprise a mark configured to indicate a direction that optic fiber 310may curve. Illustratively, housing tube 300 may comprise a slight curve,e.g., a curve less than 7.5 degrees, when actuation structure 110 isfully decompressed. In one or more embodiments, housing tube 300 maycomprise a slight curve configured to indicate a direction that opticfiber 310 may curve, e.g., due to a compression of actuation structure110.

Illustratively, a steerable laser probe may comprise an actuationstructure 110, a nosecone 105 fixed to actuation structure 110 by one ormore links 170 and one or more link pins 180, a housing tube 300, and anoptic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, a compression of actuationstructure 110 may be configured to extend nosecone 105 relative toactuation structure proximal end 112. Illustratively, an extension ofnosecone 105 relative to actuation structure proximal end 112 may beconfigured to extend housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber 310. Inone or more embodiments, an extension of housing tube 300 relative tooptic fiber 310 may be configured to apply a force to housing tube 300.Illustratively an application of a force to housing tube 300 may beconfigured to compress a portion of housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, a compression of a portion of housing tube 300 may causehousing tube 300 to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curvingof housing tube 300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber310.

FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber 310. FIG. 6A illustrates a fullycurved optic fiber 600. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 maycomprise a fully curved optic fiber 600, e.g., when housing tube 300 isfully extended relative to optic fiber 310. Illustratively, optic fiber310 may comprise a fully curved optic fiber 600, e.g., when actuationstructure 110 is fully compressed. In one or more embodiments, opticfiber 310 may comprise a fully curved optic fiber 600, e.g., whennosecone 105 is fully extended relative to handle proximal end 202. Forexample, optic fiber 310 may comprise a fully curved optic fiber 600,e.g., when first housing tube portion 320 is fully compressed.Illustratively, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may beparallel to a line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302, e.g., whenoptic fiber 310 comprises a fully curved optic fiber 600.

FIG. 6B illustrates an optic fiber in a first partially straightenedposition 610. In one or more embodiments, a decompression of actuationstructure 110 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310from a fully curved optic fiber 600 to an optic fiber in a firstpartially straightened position 610. Illustratively, a decompression ofactuation structure 110 may be configured to rotate one or more links170 about one or more link pins 180. In one or more embodiments, arotation of one or more links 170 about one or more link pins 180 may beconfigured to retract nosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 202.Illustratively, a retraction of nosecone 105 relative to handle proximalend 202 may be configured to retract housing tube 300 relative to opticfiber 310. In one or more embodiments, a retraction of housing tube 300relative to optic fiber 310 may be configured to reduce a force appliedto a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310fixed to housing tube 300 may be configured to reduce a force applied tohousing tube 300. Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to aportion of housing tube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion ofhousing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or moreembodiments, a decompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to cause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten.Illustratively, a gradual straightening of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from a fullycurved optic fiber 600 to an optic fiber in a first partiallystraightened position 610. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent tooptic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent to housing tubeproximal end 302 at a first partially straightened angle, e.g., whenoptic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a first partiallystraightened position 610. Illustratively, the first partiallystraightened angle may comprise any angle less than 180 degrees. Forexample, the first partially straightened angle may comprise a 135degree angle.

FIG. 6C illustrates an optic fiber in a second partially straightenedposition 620. In one or more embodiments, a decompression of actuationstructure 110 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310from an optic fiber in a first partially straightened position 610 to anoptic fiber in a second partially straightened position 620.Illustratively, a decompression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more link pins180. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of one or more links 170about one or more link pins 180 may be configured to retract nosecone105 relative to handle proximal end 202. Illustratively, a refraction ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured toretract housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber 310. In one or moreembodiments, a refraction of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber310 may be configured to reduce a force applied to a portion of housingtube 300, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300may be configured to reduce a force applied to housing tube 300.Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to a portion of housingtube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, adecompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured tocause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten. Illustratively, agradual straightening of housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallystraighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a firstpartially straightened position 610 to an optic fiber in a secondpartially straightened position 620. In one or more embodiments, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent tohousing tube proximal end 302 at a second partially straightened angle,e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a secondpartially straightened position 620. Illustratively, the secondpartially straightened angle may comprise any angle less than the firstpartially straightened angle. For example, the second partiallystraightened angle may comprise a 90 degree angle.

FIG. 6D illustrates an optic fiber in a third partially straightenedposition 630. In one or more embodiments, a decompression of actuationstructure 110 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310from an optic fiber in a second partially straightened position 620 toan optic fiber in a third partially straightened position 630.Illustratively, a decompression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more link pins180. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of one or more links 170about one or more link pins 180 may be configured to retract nosecone105 relative to handle proximal end 202. Illustratively, a refraction ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured toretract housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber 310. In one or moreembodiments, a refraction of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber310 may be configured to reduce a force applied to a portion of housingtube 300, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300may be configured to reduce a force applied to housing tube 300.Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to a portion of housingtube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, adecompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured tocause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten. Illustratively, agradual straightening of housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallystraighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a secondpartially straightened position 620 to an optic fiber in a thirdpartially straightened position 630. In one or more embodiments, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent tohousing tube proximal end 302 at a third partially straightened angle,e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a third partiallystraightened position 630. Illustratively, the third partiallystraightened angle may comprise any angle less than the second partiallystraightened angle. For example, the third partially straightened anglemay comprise a 45 degree angle.

FIG. 6E illustrates an optic fiber in a fully straightened position 640.In one or more embodiments, a decompression of actuation structure 110may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310 from an opticfiber in a third partially straightened position 630 to an optic fiberin a fully straightened position 640. Illustratively, a decompression ofactuation structure 110 may be configured to rotate one or more links170 about one or more link pins 180. In one or more embodiments, arotation of one or more links 170 about one or more link pins 180 may beconfigured to retract nosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 202.Illustratively, a retraction of nosecone 105 relative to handle proximalend 202 may be configured to retract housing tube 300 relative to opticfiber 310. In one or more embodiments, a retraction of housing tube 300relative to optic fiber 310 may be configured to reduce a force appliedto a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310fixed to housing tube 300 may be configured to reduce a force applied tohousing tube 300. Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to aportion of housing tube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion ofhousing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or moreembodiments, a decompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to cause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten.Illustratively, a gradual straightening of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an opticfiber in a third partially straightened position 630 to an optic fiberin a fully straightened position 640. In one or more embodiments, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a line tangentto housing tube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprisesan optic fiber in a fully straightened position 640.

Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any of aplurality of targets within an eye, e.g., to perform a photocoagulationprocedure, to illuminate a surgical target site, etc. In one or moreembodiments, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any targetwithin a particular transverse plane of the inner eye by, e.g., rotatinghandle 200 to orient housing tube 300 in an orientation configured tocause a curvature of housing tube 300 within the particular transverseplane of the inner eye and varying an amount of compression of actuationstructure 110. Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end311 at any target within a particular sagittal plane of the inner eyeby, e.g., rotating handle 200 to orient housing tube 300 in anorientation configured to cause a curvature of housing tube 300 withinthe particular sagittal plane of the inner eye and varying an amount ofcompression of actuation structure 110. In one or more embodiments, asurgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any target within aparticular frontal plane of the inner eye by, e.g., varying an amount ofactuation of compression of actuation structure 110 to orient a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 wherein the line tangent to opticfiber distal end 311 is within the particular frontal plane of the innereye and rotating handle 200. Illustratively, a surgeon may aim opticfiber distal end 311 at any target located outside of the particulartransverse plane, the particular sagittal plane, and the particularfrontal plane of the inner eye, e.g., by varying a rotationalorientation of handle 200 and varying an amount of compression ofactuation structure 110. In one or more embodiments, a surgeon may aimoptic fiber distal end 311 at any target of a plurality of targetswithin an eye, e.g., without increasing a length of a portion of asteerable laser probe within the eye. Illustratively, a surgeon may aimoptic fiber distal end 311 at any target of a plurality of targetswithin an eye, e.g., without decreasing a length of a portion of asteerable laser probe within the eye.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle 700. FIG.7A illustrates a side view of a handle 700. Illustratively, handle 700may comprise a handle distal end 701 and a handle proximal end 702. Inone or more embodiments, a portion of nosecone 105 may be fixed to aportion of actuation structure 110, e.g., nosecone proximal end 107 maybe fixed to actuation structure distal end 111. Illustratively, nosecone105 may be fixed to actuation structure 110, e.g., by one or more links170. In one or more embodiments, one or more link pins 180 may beconfigured to fix nosecone 105 to one or more links 170, e.g., aparticular link pin 180 may be disposed within nosecone 105 and aparticular link 170. Illustratively, one or more link pins 180 may beconfigured to fix actuation structure 110 to one or more links 170,e.g., a particular link pin 180 may be disposed within actuationstructure 110 and a particular link 170. In one or more embodiments, afirst link pin 180 may be configured to fix nosecone 105 to a particularlink 170 and a second link pin 180 may be configured to fix actuationstructure 110 to the particular link 175. Illustratively, one or morespacers 175 may be configured to prevent undesirable movement of one ormore links 170 relative to one or more link pins 180, e.g., a particularspacer 175 may be disposed over a portion of a particular link pin 180extending from a particular link 170.

In one or more embodiments, a portion of inner hypodermic tube 140 maybe disposed within piston 150, e.g., inner hypodermic tube proximal end142 may be disposed within piston 150. Illustratively, a portion ofinner hypodermic tube 140 may be fixed within piston 150, e.g., by anadhesive or any suitable fixation means. In one or more embodiments,inner hypodermic tube proximal end 142 may be fixed within piston 150,e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. Illustratively,actuation guide 130 may be disposed within outer sleeve 120. In one ormore embodiments, actuation guide 130 may be fixed within outer sleeve120, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means.Illustratively, piston 150 may be disposed within actuation guide 130.In one or more embodiments, piston 150 may be configured to actuatewithin actuation guide 130.

In one or more embodiments, distal ring 116 may be disposed over aportion of front plug 115. Illustratively, front plug 115 may beconfigured to interface with a portion of outer sleeve 120, e.g., frontplug 115 may be configured to interface with outer sleeve distal end121. In one or more embodiments, front plug 115 may be configured tointerface with a portion of actuation guide 130, e.g., front plug 115may be configured to interface with actuation guide distal end 131.Illustratively, front plug 115 may be disposed within outer sleeve 120.In one or more embodiments, a portion of front plug 115 may be disposedwithin actuation guide 130. Illustratively, distal ring 116 may bedisposed within actuation guide 130, e.g., distal ring 116 may beconfigured to form a hermetic seal within actuation guide 130.

In one or more embodiments, proximal ring 117 may be disposed over aportion of end plug 160. Illustratively, end plug 160 may be configuredto interface with a portion of outer sleeve 120, e.g., end plug 160 maybe configured to interface with outer sleeve proximal end 122. In one ormore embodiments, end plug 160 may be configured to interface with aportion of actuation guide 130, e.g., end plug 160 may be configured tointerface with actuation guide proximal end 132. For example, a portionof end plug 160 may be disposed within actuation guide 130.Illustratively, proximal ring 117 may be disposed within actuation guide130, e.g., proximal ring 117 may be configured to form a hermetic sealwithin actuation guide 130. In one or more embodiments, end plug 160 maybe disposed within outer sleeve 120. Illustratively, inner hypodermictube 140 may be disposed within piston 150, actuation guide 130, frontplug 115, distal ring 116, and nosecone 105. In one or more embodiments,a portion of inner hypodermic tube 140 may be fixed within nosecone 105,e.g., inner hypodermic tube distal end 141 may be fixed within nosecone105. Illustratively, a portion of inner hypodermic tube 140 may be fixedwithin nosecone 105, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixationmeans.

In one or more embodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 maybe configured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more linkpins 180. Illustratively, a rotation of one or more links 170 about oneor more link pins 180 may be configured to extend a particular link pin180, e.g., a particular link pin 180 disposed in nosecone 105, relativeto handle proximal end 702. In one or more embodiments, an extension ofa particular link pin 180 disposed in nosecone 105 relative to handleproximal end 702 may be configured to extend nosecone 105 relative tohandle proximal end 702. Illustratively, a compression of actuationstructure 110 may be configured to extend nosecone 105 relative tohandle proximal end 702. In one or more embodiments, an extension ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 702 may be configured toextend inner hypodermic tube 140 relative to handle proximal end 702.Illustratively, an extension of inner hypodermic tube 140 relative tohandle proximal end 702 may be configured to actuate piston 150 withinactuation guide 130. In one or more embodiments, a compression ofactuation structure 110 may be configured to extend piston 150 relativeto handle proximal end 702.

In one or more embodiments, a decompression of action structure 110 maybe configured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more linkpins 180. Illustratively, a rotation of one or more links 170 about oneor more link pins 180 may be configured to retract a particular link pin180, e.g., a particular link pin 180 disposed in nosecone 105, relativeto handle proximal end 702. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofa particular link pin 180 disposed in nosecone 105 relative to handleproximal end 702 may be configured to retract nosecone 105 relative tohandle proximal end 702. Illustratively, a decompression of actuationstructure 110 may be configured to retract nosecone 105 relative tohandle proximal end 702. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 702 may be configured toretract inner hypodermic tube 140 relative to handle proximal end 702.Illustratively, a retraction of inner hypodermic tube 140 relative tohandle proximal end 702 may be configured to actuate piston 150 withinactuation guide 130. In one or more embodiments, a decompression ofactuation structure 110 may be configured to retract piston 150 relativeto handle proximal end 702.

FIG. 7B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a handle 700. In one ormore embodiments, handle 700 may comprise a cable housing 710, an innerbore 220, an optic fiber guide 230, and a housing tube housing 240.Illustratively, handle 700 may be manufactured from any suitablematerial, e.g., polymers, metals, metal alloys, etc., or from anycombination of suitable materials.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a housing tube 300.Illustratively, an optic fiber 310 may be disposed within housing tube300. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may comprise an opticfiber distal end 311 and an optic fiber proximal end 312.Illustratively, optic fiber 300 may be configured to transmit light,e.g., laser light, illumination light, etc. In one or more embodiments,optic fiber 310 may be disposed within housing tube 300 wherein opticfiber distal end 311 may be adjacent to housing tube distal end 301.Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may be disposed within housing tube 300wherein a portion of optic fiber 310 may be adjacent to a portion offirst housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, a portion ofoptic fiber 310 may be fixed to an inner portion of housing tube 300,e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means.

Illustratively, a cable 810 may be disposed within housing tube 300. Inone or more embodiments, cable 810 may comprise a cable distal end 811and a cable proximal end 812. Illustratively, cable 810 may be disposedwithin housing tube 300 wherein cable distal end 811 may be adjacent tohousing tube distal end 301. Illustratively, cable 810 may be disposedwithin housing tube 300 wherein a portion of cable 810 may be adjacentto a portion of first housing tube portion 320. In one or moreembodiments, a portion of cable 810 may be fixed to a portion of housingtube 300, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. Forexample, cable 810 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 300 by aweld, a mechanical means, a tie, etc.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly 900. Illustratively, a steerable laserprobe assembly 900 may comprise a handle 700, a housing tube 300 havinga housing tube distal end 301 and a housing tube proximal end 302, anoptic fiber 310 having an optic fiber distal end 311 and an optic fiberproximal end 312, a cable 810 having a cable distal end 811 and a cableproximal end 812, and a light source interface 410. Illustratively,light source interface 410 may be configured to interface with opticfiber 310, e.g., at optic fiber proximal end 312. In one or moreembodiments, light source interface 410 may comprise a standard lightsource connecter, e.g., an SMA connector.

Illustratively, a portion of housing tube 300 may be fixed to nosecone105, e.g., housing tube proximal end 302 may be fixed to nosecone distalend 106. In one or more embodiments, a portion of housing tube 300 maybe fixed to nosecone 105, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixationmeans. Illustratively, a portion of housing tube 300 may be disposedwithin nosecone 105, e.g., housing tube proximal end 302 may be disposedwithin nosecone 105. In one or more embodiments, a portion of housingtube 300 may be fixed within nosecone 105, e.g., by an adhesive or anysuitable fixation means. Illustratively, a portion of housing tube 300may be disposed within housing tube housing 240, e.g., housing tubeproximal end 302 may be disposed within housing tube housing 240. In oneor more embodiments, a portion of housing tube 300 may be fixed withinhousing tube housing 240, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixationmeans. For example, a portion of housing tube 300 may be fixed withinhousing tube housing 240 by a press fit, a weld, etc.

Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may be disposed within inner bore 220,optic fiber guide 230, piston 150, inner hypodermic tube 140, nosecone105, and housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310may be disposed within housing tube 300 wherein optic fiber distal end311 is adjacent to housing tube distal end 301. Illustratively, opticfiber 310 may be disposed within housing tube 300 wherein a portion ofoptic fiber 310 is adjacent to first housing tube portion 320. In one ormore embodiments, a portion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed to a portionof housing tube 300, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixationmeans.

Illustratively, cable 810 may be disposed within cable housing 710,optic fiber guide 230, piston 150, inner hypodermic tube 140, nosecone105, and housing tube 300. In one or more embodiment, cable 810 may bedisposed within housing tube 300 wherein cable distal end 811 may beadjacent to housing tube distal end 301. Illustratively, cable 810 maybe disposed within housing tube 300 wherein a portion of cable 810 maybe adjacent to a portion of first housing tube portion 320. In one ormore embodiments, a portion of cable 810 may be fixed to a portion ofhousing tube 300, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means.For example, cable 810 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 300 bya weld, a mechanical means, a tie, etc. Illustratively, a portion ofcable 810 may be fixed in cable housing 710, e.g., cable proximal end812 may be fixed in cable housing 710. In one or more embodiments, aportion of cable 810 may be fixed in cable housing 710, e.g., by anadhesive or any suitable fixation means. For example, a portion of cable810 may be fixed in cable housing 710 by a press fit, a weld, a tie,etc. Illustratively, cable 810 may be fixed in cable housing 710 andcable 810 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 300. Cable 810 maybe manufactured from any suitable material, e.g., polymers, metals,metal alloys, etc., or from any combination of suitable materials.

In one or more embodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 maybe configured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more linkpins 180. Illustratively, a rotation of one or more links 170 about oneor more link pins 180 may be configured to extend nosecone 105 relativeto handle proximal end 702. In one or more embodiments, an extension ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 702 may be configured toextend housing tube 300 relative to handle proximal end 702.Illustratively, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to handleproximal end 702 may be configured to extend housing tube 300 relativeto cable 810. In one or more embodiments, a portion of cable 810, e.g.,a portion of cable 810 fixed to housing tube 300, may be configured toresist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable 810.Illustratively, cable 810 may be fixed within cable housing 710 andcable 810 may be fixed to housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments,an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable 810 may be configuredto apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300. Illustratively, anapplication of a force to a portion of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to compress a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., anapplication of a force to a portion of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to compress first housing tube portion 320. In one or moreembodiments, a compression of a portion of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to cause housing tube 300 to gradually curve. Illustratively,a gradual curving of housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallycurve optic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, a compression ofactuation structure 110 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber310. Illustratively, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to gradually curve housing tube 300.

In one or more embodiments, a decompression of actuation structure 110may be configured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more linkpins 180. Illustratively, a rotation of one or more links 170 about oneor more link pins 180 may be configured to retract nosecone 105 relativeto handle proximal end 702. In one or more embodiments, a refraction ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 702 may be configured toretract housing tube 300 relative to handle proximal end 702.Illustratively, a retraction of housing tube 300 relative to handleproximal end 702 may be configured to retract housing tube 300 relativeto cable 810. In one or more embodiments, a portion of cable 810, e.g.,a portion of cable 810 fixed to housing tube 300, may be configured tofacilitate a retraction of housing tube 300 relative to cable 810.Illustratively, cable 810 may be fixed within cable housing 710 andcable 810 may be fixed to housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments,a retraction of housing tube 300 relative to cable 810 may be configuredto reduce a force applied to a portion of housing tube 300.Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to a portion of housingtube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., a reduction of a force applied to a portion of housing tube 300may be configured to decompress first housing tube portion 320. In oneor more embodiments, a decompression of a portion of housing tube 300may be configured to cause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten.Illustratively, a gradual straightening of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310. In one or moreembodiments, a decompression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310. Illustratively, adecompression of actuation structure 110 may be configured to graduallystraighten housing tube 300.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, and 10E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber 310. FIG. 10A illustrates a straightoptic fiber 1000. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 maycomprise a straight optic fiber 1000, e.g., when housing tube 300 isfully retracted relative to cable 810. Illustratively, optic fiber 310may comprise a straight optic fiber 1000, e.g., when actuation structure110 is fully decompressed. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310may comprise a straight optic fiber 1000, e.g., when nosecone 105 isfully retracted relative to handle proximal end 702. For example, opticfiber 310 may comprise a straight optic fiber 1000, e.g., when firsthousing tube portion 320 is fully decompressed. Illustratively, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a line tangentto housing tube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises astraight optic fiber 1000.

FIG. 10B illustrates an optic fiber in a first curved position 1010. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from a straight opticfiber 1000 to an optic fiber in a first curved position 1010.Illustratively, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more link pins180. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of one or more links 170about one or more link pins 180 may be configured to extend nosecone 105relative to handle proximal end 702. Illustratively, an extension ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 702 may be configured toextend housing tube 300 relative to cable 810. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable 810 maybe configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., aportion of cable 810 fixed to housing tube 300 may be configured toapply a force to housing tube 300. Illustratively, an application of aforce to a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured to compress aportion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of a portion of housing tube 300may be configured to cause housing tube 300 to gradually curve.Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube 300 may be configuredto gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from a straight optic fiber1000 to an optic fiber in a first curved position 1010. In one or moreembodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersecta line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302 at a first angle, e.g.,when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a first curved position1010. In one or more embodiments, the first angle may comprise any anglegreater than zero degrees. For example, the first angle may comprise a45 degree angle.

FIG. 10C illustrates an optic fiber in a second curved position 1020. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiber in afirst curved position 1010 to an optic fiber in a second curved position1020. Illustratively, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more link pins180. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of one or more links 170about one or more link pins 180 may be configured to extend nosecone 105relative to handle proximal end 702. Illustratively, an extension ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 702 may be configured toextend housing tube 300 relative to cable 810. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable 810 maybe configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., aportion of cable 810 fixed to housing tube 300 may be configured toapply a force to housing tube 300. Illustratively, an application of aforce to a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured to compress aportion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of a portion of housing tube 300may be configured to cause housing tube 300 to gradually curve.Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube 300 may be configuredto gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a firstcurved position 1010 to an optic fiber in a second curved position 1020.In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311may intersect a line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302 at asecond angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in asecond curved position 1020. In one or more embodiments, the secondangle may comprise any angle greater than the first angle. For example,the second angle may comprise a 90 degree angle.

FIG. 10D illustrates an optic fiber in a third curved position 1030. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiber in asecond curved position 1020 to an optic fiber in a third curved position1030. Illustratively, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more link pins180. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of one or more links 170about one or more link pins 180 may be configured to extend nosecone 105relative to handle proximal end 702. Illustratively, an extension ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 702 may be configured toextend housing tube 300 relative to cable 810. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable 810 maybe configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., aportion of cable 810 fixed to housing tube 300 may be configured toapply a force to housing tube 300. Illustratively, an application of aforce to a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured to compress aportion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of a portion of housing tube 300may be configured to cause housing tube 300 to gradually curve.Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube 300 may be configuredto gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in asecond curved position 1020 to an optic fiber in a third curved position1030. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distalend 311 may intersect a line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302 ata third angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in athird curved position 1030. In one or more embodiments, the third anglemay comprise any angle greater than the second angle. For example, thethird angle may comprise a 135 degree angle.

FIG. 10E illustrates an optic fiber in a fourth curved position 1040. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiber in athird curved position 1030 to an optic fiber in a fourth curved position1040. Illustratively, a compression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more link pins180. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of one or more links 170about one or more link pins 180 may be configured to extend nosecone 105relative to handle proximal end 702. Illustratively, an extension ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 702 may be configured toextend housing tube 300 relative to cable 810. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable 810 maybe configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., aportion of cable 810 fixed to housing tube 300 may be configured toapply a force to housing tube 300. Illustratively, an application of aforce to a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured to compress aportion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of a portion of housing tube 300may be configured to cause housing tube 300 to gradually curve.Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube 300 may be configuredto gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a thirdcurved position 1030 to an optic fiber in a fourth curved position 1040.In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311may be parallel to a line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302,e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a fourth curvedposition 1040.

In one or more embodiments, one or more properties of a steerable laserprobe may be adjusted to attain one or more desired steerable laserprobe features. Illustratively, a length that housing tube distal end301 extends from nosecone distal end 106 may be adjusted to vary anamount of compression of actuation structure 110 configured to curvehousing tube 300 to a particular curved position. In one or moreembodiments, a stiffness of first housing tube portion 320 or astiffness of second housing tube portion 330 may be adjusted to vary anamount of compression of actuation structure 110 configured to curvehousing tube 300 to a particular curved position. Illustratively, amaterial comprising first housing tube portion 320 or a materialcomprising second housing tube portion 330 may be adjusted to vary anamount of compression of actuation structure 110 configured to curvehousing tube 300 to a particular curved position.

In one or more embodiments, a number of apertures in housing tube 300may be adjusted to vary an amount of compression of actuation structure110 configured to curve housing tube 300 to a particular curvedposition. Illustratively, a location of one or more apertures in housingtube 300 may be adjusted to vary an amount of compression of actuationstructure 110 configured to curve housing tube 300 to a particularcurved position. In one or more embodiments, a geometry of one or moreapertures in housing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary an amount ofcompression of actuation structure 110 configured to curve housing tube300 to a particular curved position. Illustratively, a geometry of oneor more apertures in housing tube 300 may be uniform, e.g., eachaperture of the one or more apertures may have a same geometry. In oneor more embodiments, a geometry of one or more apertures in housing tube300 may be non-uniform, e.g., a first aperture in housing tube 300 mayhave a first geometry and a second aperture in housing tube 300 may havea second geometry. Illustratively, a geometry or location of one or moreapertures in housing tube 300 may be optimized to evenly distribute anapplied force. For example, a geometry or location of one or moreapertures in housing tube 300 may be optimized to evenly distribute aforce applied to first housing tube portion 320.

Illustratively, a stiffness of first housing tube portion 320 or astiffness of second housing tube portion 330 may be adjusted to vary abend radius of housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a stiffnessof first housing tube portion 320 or a stiffness of second housing tubeportion 330 may be adjusted to vary a radius of curvature of housingtube 300, e.g., when housing tube 300 is in a particular curvedposition. Illustratively, a number of apertures in housing tube 300 maybe adjusted to vary a bend radius of housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, a number of apertures in housing tube 300 may be adjustedto vary a radius of curvature of housing tube 300, e.g., when housingtube 300 is in a particular curved position. Illustratively, a locationor a geometry of one or more apertures in housing tube 300 may beadjusted to vary a bend radius of housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, a location or a geometry of one or more apertures inhousing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary a radius of curvature ofhousing tube 300, e.g., when housing tube 300 is in a particular curvedposition.

In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber 310 may beenclosed in an optic fiber sleeve configured to, e.g., protect opticfiber 310, vary a stiffness of optic fiber 310, vary an optical propertyof optic fiber 310, etc. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may comprise abuffer, a cladding disposed in the buffer, and a core disposed in thecladding. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber310 may comprise a buffer configured to protect an optical property ofoptic fiber 310. Illustratively, at least a portion of optic fiber 310may comprise a buffer configured to protect an optical layer of opticfiber 310, e.g., the buffer may protect an optical layer of a curvedportion of optic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, at least aportion of optic fiber 310 may comprise a polyimide buffer configured toprotect an optical property of optic fiber 310. For example, at least aportion of optic fiber 310 may comprise a Kapton buffer configured toprotect an optical property of optic fiber 310.

In one or more embodiments, a location wherein cable 810 may be fixed tohousing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary an amount of compression ofactuation structure 110 configured to curve housing tube 300 to aparticular curved position. For example, a portion of cable 810 may befixed to an outer portion of housing tube 300. Illustratively, cable 810may be fixed to housing tube 300 at a plurality of fixation points,e.g., to vary one or more properties of a steerable laser probe. In oneor more embodiments, a length of cable 810 may be adjusted to vary anamount of compression of actuation structure 110 configured to curvehousing tube 300 to a particular curved position. Illustratively, asteerable laser probe may comprise one or more redundant cables 810. Inone or more embodiments, one or more redundant cables 810 may beconfigured to maintain a particular curved position of housing tube 300,e.g., in the event that cable 810 breaks or fails. Illustratively, oneor more redundant cables 810 may be configured to maintain a particularcurved position of housing tube 300, e.g., in the event that a cable 810fixation means fails. In one or more embodiments, one or more redundantcables 810 may be configured to maintain a particular curved position ofhousing tube 300, e.g., in the event that cable 810 is no longerconfigured to maintain the particular curved position of housing tube300. Illustratively, one or more redundant cables 810 may be configuredto maintain a particular curved position of housing tube 300 whereincable 810 is also configured to maintain the particular curved positionof housing tube 300.

In one or more embodiments, housing tube 300 may comprise an accesswindow configured to allow access to a portion cable 810.Illustratively, cable 810 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., by looping a portion of cable 810 through an aperture in housingtube 300. In one or more embodiments, cable 810 may be fixed to aportion of housing tube 300, e.g., by a purely mechanical means. Forexample, cable 810 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 300 in amanner other than by an adhesive, a weld, etc. Illustratively, cable 810may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 300 wherein a portion of cable810 is configured to fail at a first applied failure force and afixation means that fixes a portion of cable 810 to a portion of housingtube 300 is configured to fail at a second applied failure force. In oneor more embodiments, the second applied failure force may be greaterthan the first applied failure force.

Illustratively, a steerable laser probe may be configured to indicate,e.g., to a surgeon, a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve, e.g.,due to a compression of actuation structure 110. In one or moreembodiments, a portion of a steerable laser probe, e.g., handle 700, maybe marked in a manner configured to indicate a direction that opticfiber 310 may curve. For example, a portion of housing tube 300 maycomprise a mark configured to indicate a direction that optic fiber 310may curve. Illustratively, housing tube 300 may comprise a slight curve,e.g., a curve less than 7.5 degrees, when actuation structure 110 isfully decompressed. In one or more embodiments, housing tube 300 maycomprise a slight curve configured to indicate a direction that opticfiber 310 may curve, e.g., due to a compression of actuation structure110.

Illustratively, a steerable laser probe may comprise an actuationstructure 110, a nosecone 105 fixed to actuation structure 110 by one ormore links 170 and one or more link pins 180, a housing tube 300, anoptic fiber 310, and a cable 810. In one or more embodiments, acompression of actuation structure 110 may be configured to extendnosecone 105 relative to actuation structure proximal end 112.Illustratively, an extension of nosecone 105 relative to actuationstructure proximal end 112 may be configured to extend housing tube 300relative to cable 810. In one or more embodiments, an extension ofhousing tube 300 relative to cable 810 may be configured to apply aforce to housing tube 300. Illustratively an application of a force tohousing tube 300 may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube300. In one or more embodiments, a compression of a portion of housingtube 300 may cause housing tube 300 to gradually curve. Illustratively,a gradual curving of housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallycurve optic fiber 310.

FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, and 11E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber 310. FIG. 11A illustrates afully curved optic fiber 1100. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber310 may comprise a fully curved optic fiber 1100, e.g., when housingtube 300 is fully extended relative to cable 810. Illustratively, opticfiber 310 may comprise a fully curved optic fiber 1100, e.g., whenactuation structure 110 is fully compressed. In one or more embodiments,optic fiber 310 may comprise a fully curved optic fiber 1100, e.g., whennosecone 105 is fully extended relative to handle proximal end 702. Forexample, optic fiber 310 may comprise a fully curved optic fiber 1100,e.g., when first housing tube portion 320 is fully compressed.Illustratively, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may beparallel to a line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302, e.g., whenoptic fiber 310 comprises a fully curved optic fiber 1100.

FIG. 11B illustrates an optic fiber in a first partially straightenedposition 1110. In one or more embodiments, a decompression of actuationstructure 110 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310from a fully curved optic fiber 1100 to an optic fiber in a firstpartially straightened position 1110. Illustratively, a decompression ofactuation structure 110 may be configured to rotate one or more links170 about one or more link pins 180. In one or more embodiments, arotation of one or more links 170 about one or more link pins 180 may beconfigured to retract nosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 702.Illustratively, a retraction of nosecone 105 relative to handle proximalend 702 may be configured to retract housing tube 300 relative to cable810. In one or more embodiments, a retraction of housing tube 300relative to cable 810 may be configured to reduce a force applied to aportion of housing tube 300, e.g., a portion of cable 810 fixed tohousing tube 300 may be configured to reduce a force applied to housingtube 300. Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to a portion ofhousing tube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion of housingtube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or moreembodiments, a decompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to cause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten.Illustratively, a gradual straightening of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from a fullycurved optic fiber 1100 to an optic fiber in a first partiallystraightened position 1110. In one or more embodiments, a line tangentto optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent to housingtube proximal end 302 at a first partially straightened angle, e.g.,when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a first partiallystraightened position 1110. Illustratively, the first partiallystraightened angle may comprise any angle less than 180 degrees. Forexample, the first partially straightened angle may comprise a 135degree angle.

FIG. 11C illustrates an optic fiber in a second partially straightenedposition 1120. In one or more embodiments, a decompression of actuationstructure 110 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310from an optic fiber in a first partially straightened position 1110 toan optic fiber in a second partially straightened position 1120.Illustratively, a decompression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more link pins180. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of one or more links 170about one or more link pins 180 may be configured to retract nosecone105 relative to handle proximal end 702. Illustratively, a retraction ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 702 may be configured toretract housing tube 300 relative to cable 810. In one or moreembodiments, a retraction of housing tube 300 relative to cable 810 maybe configured to reduce a force applied to a portion of housing tube300, e.g., a portion of cable 810 fixed to housing tube 300 may beconfigured to reduce a force applied to housing tube 300.Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to a portion of housingtube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, adecompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured tocause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten. Illustratively, agradual straightening of housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallystraighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a firstpartially straightened position 1110 to an optic fiber in a secondpartially straightened position 1120. In one or more embodiments, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent tohousing tube proximal end 302 at a second partially straightened angle,e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a secondpartially straightened position 1120. Illustratively, the secondpartially straightened angle may comprise any angle less than the firstpartially straightened angle. For example, the second partiallystraightened angle may comprise a 90 degree angle.

FIG. 11D illustrates an optic fiber in a third partially straightenedposition 1130. In one or more embodiments, a decompression of actuationstructure 110 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310from an optic fiber in a second partially straightened position 1120 toan optic fiber in a third partially straightened position 1130.Illustratively, a decompression of actuation structure 110 may beconfigured to rotate one or more links 170 about one or more link pins180. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of one or more links 170about one or more link pins 180 may be configured to retract nosecone105 relative to handle proximal end 702. Illustratively, a retraction ofnosecone 105 relative to handle proximal end 702 may be configured toretract housing tube 300 relative to cable 810. In one or moreembodiments, a retraction of housing tube 300 relative to cable 810 maybe configured to reduce a force applied to a portion of housing tube300, e.g., a portion of cable 810 fixed to housing tube 300 may beconfigured to reduce a force applied to housing tube 300.Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to a portion of housingtube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, adecompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured tocause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten. Illustratively, agradual straightening of housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallystraighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a secondpartially straightened position 1120 to an optic fiber in a thirdpartially straightened position 1130. In one or more embodiments, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent tohousing tube proximal end 302 at a third partially straightened angle,e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a third partiallystraightened position 1130. Illustratively, the third partiallystraightened angle may comprise any angle less than the second partiallystraightened angle. For example, the third partially straightened anglemay comprise a 45 degree angle.

FIG. 11E illustrates an optic fiber in a fully straightened position1140. In one or more embodiments, a decompression of actuation structure110 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310 from anoptic fiber in a third partially straightened position 1130 to an opticfiber in a fully straightened position 1140. Illustratively, adecompression of actuation structure 110 may be configured to rotate oneor more links 170 about one or more link pins 180. In one or moreembodiments, a rotation of one or more links 170 about one or more linkpins 180 may be configured to retract nosecone 105 relative to handleproximal end 702. Illustratively, a retraction of nosecone 105 relativeto handle proximal end 702 may be configured to retract housing tube 300relative to cable 810. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofhousing tube 300 relative to cable 810 may be configured to reduce aforce applied to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., a portion of cable810 fixed to housing tube 300 may be configured to reduce a forceapplied to housing tube 300. Illustratively, a reduction of a forceapplied to a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured to decompressa portion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. Inone or more embodiments, a decompression of a portion of housing tube300 may be configured to cause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten.Illustratively, a gradual straightening of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an opticfiber in a third partially straightened position 1130 to an optic fiberin a fully straightened position 1140. In one or more embodiments, aline tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a linetangent to housing tube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310comprises an optic fiber in a fully straightened position 1140.

Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any of aplurality of targets within an eye, e.g., to perform a photocoagulationprocedure, to illuminate a surgical target site, etc. In one or moreembodiments, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any targetwithin a particular transverse plane of the inner eye by, e.g., rotatinghandle 700 to orient housing tube 300 in an orientation configured tocause a curvature of housing tube 300 within the particular transverseplane of the inner eye and varying an amount of compression of actuationstructure 110. Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end311 at any target within a particular sagittal plane of the inner eyeby, e.g., rotating handle 700 to orient housing tube 300 in anorientation configured to cause a curvature of housing tube 300 withinthe particular sagittal plane of the inner eye and varying an amount ofcompression of actuation structure 110. In one or more embodiments, asurgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any target within aparticular frontal plane of the inner eye by, e.g., varying an amount ofactuation of compression of actuation structure 110 to orient a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 wherein the line tangent to opticfiber distal end 311 is within the particular frontal plane of the innereye and rotating handle 700. Illustratively, a surgeon may aim opticfiber distal end 311 at any target located outside of the particulartransverse plane, the particular sagittal plane, and the particularfrontal plane of the inner eye, e.g., by varying a rotationalorientation of handle 700 and varying an amount of compression ofactuation structure 110. In one or more embodiments, a surgeon may aimoptic fiber distal end 311 at any target of a plurality of targetswithin an eye, e.g., without increasing a length of a portion of asteerable laser probe within the eye. Illustratively, a surgeon may aimoptic fiber distal end 311 at any target of a plurality of targetswithin an eye, e.g., without decreasing a length of a portion of asteerable laser probe within the eye.

The foregoing description has been directed to particular embodiments ofthis invention. It will be apparent; however, that other variations andmodifications may be made to the described embodiments, with theattainment of some or all of their advantages. Specifically, it shouldbe noted that the principles of the present invention may be implementedin any system. Furthermore, while this description has been written interms of a surgical instrument, the teachings of the present inventionare equally suitable to any systems where the functionality may beemployed. Therefore, it is the object of the appended claims to coverall such variations and modifications as come within the true spirit andscope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An instrument comprising: an actuation structureof a handle having an actuation structure distal end and an actuationstructure proximal end wherein the handle has a handle distal end and ahandle proximal end; a nosecone having a housing tube housing; a firstlink wherein the first link is fixed to the actuation structure by afirst link pin and wherein the first link is fixed to the nosecone by asecond link pin; a first spacer disposed over the first link pin, thefirst spacer configured to prevent movement of the first link relativeto the first link pin; a second spacer disposed over the second linkpin, the second spacer configured to prevent movement of the first linkrelative to the second link pin; a second link wherein the second linkis fixed to the actuation structure by a third link pin and wherein thesecond link is fixed to the nosecone by a fourth link pin and wherein arotation of the first link about the first link pin and the second linkpin and a rotation of the second link about the third link pin and thefourth link pin is configured to extend the nosecone relative to thehandle proximal end; a single housing tube having a housing tube distalend and a housing tube proximal end wherein the housing tube proximalend is disposed within the housing tube housing and wherein the housingtube proximal end is fixed within the housing tube housing; a firsthousing tube portion of the housing tube having a first inner diameter,the first housing tube portion having a first stiffness; a secondhousing tube portion of the housing tube having a second inner diameter,the second housing tube portion having a second stiffness wherein thesecond stiffness is greater than the first stiffness and wherein thefirst inner diameter is larger than the second inner diameter; a cablehaving a cable distal end and a cable proximal end, the cable disposedin a cable housing and the housing tube wherein the cable is fixed inthe cable housing and wherein the cable is fixed to a portion of thehousing tube; and an optic fiber having an optic fiber distal end and anoptic fiber proximal end, the optic fiber disposed in the actuationstructure and the housing tube wherein the optic fiber distal end isadjacent to the housing tube distal end and wherein a portion of theoptic fiber is fixed to the housing tube.
 2. The instrument of claim 1wherein a compression of the actuation structure is configured to curvethe optic fiber.
 3. The instrument of claim 2 wherein the compression ofthe actuation structure is configured to curve the optic fiber at least45 degrees relative to the housing tube proximal end.
 4. The instrumentof claim 3 wherein the compression of the actuation structure isconfigured to curve the optic fiber at least 90 degrees relative to thehousing tube proximal end.
 5. The instrument of claim 1 wherein acompression of the actuation structure is configured to curve thehousing tube.
 6. The instrument of claim 5 wherein the compression ofthe actuation structure is configured to curve the housing tube at least45 degrees.
 7. The instrument of claim 6 wherein the compression of theactuation structure is configured to curve the housing tube at least 90degrees.
 8. The instrument of claim 1 further comprising: a pistonhaving a piston distal end and a piston proximal end.
 9. The instrumentof claim 1 further comprising: an inner hypodermic tube having an innerhypodermic tube distal end and an inner hypodermic tube proximal end.10. The instrument of claim 1 further comprising: an actuation guidehaving an actuation guide distal end and an actuation guide proximalend.
 11. The instrument of claim 1 further comprising: an outer sleevehaving an outer sleeve distal end and an outer sleeve proximal end. 12.The instrument of claim 1 further comprising: a redundant cable having aredundant cable distal end and a redundant cable proximal end, theredundant cable configured to maintain a particular curved position ofthe housing tube if the cable fails to maintain the particular curvedposition of the housing tube.
 13. An instrument comprising: an actuationstructure of a handle having an actuation structure distal end and anactuation structure proximal end wherein the handle has a handle distalend and a handle proximal end; a nosecone having a housing tube housing;a first link wherein the first link is fixed to the actuation structureby a first link pin and wherein the first link is fixed to the noseconeby a second link pin; a first spacer disposed over the first link pin,the first spacer configured to prevent movement of the first linkrelative to the first link pin; a second spacer disposed over the secondlink pin, the second spacer configured to prevent movement of the firstlink relative to the second link pin; a second link wherein the secondlink is fixed to the actuation structure by a third link pin and whereinthe second link is fixed to the nosecone by a fourth link pin andwherein a rotation of the first link about the first link pin and thesecond link pin and a rotation of the second link about the third linkpin and the fourth link pin is configured to extend the noseconerelative to the handle proximal end; a single housing tube having ahousing tube distal end and a housing tube proximal end wherein thehousing tube proximal end is disposed within the housing tube housingand wherein the housing tube proximal end is fixed within the housingtube housing; a first housing tube portion of the housing tube having afirst inner diameter, the first housing tube portion having a firststiffness; a second housing tube portion of the housing tube having asecond inner diameter, the second housing tube portion having a secondstiffness wherein the second stiffness is greater than the firststiffness and wherein the first inner diameter is larger than the secondinner diameter; a cable having a cable distal end and a cable proximalend, the cable disposed in a cable housing and the housing tube whereinthe cable is fixed in the cable housing and wherein the cable is fixedto a portion of the housing tube; a redundant cable having a redundantcable distal end and a redundant cable proximal end; and an optic fiberhaving an optic fiber distal end and an optic fiber proximal end, theoptic fiber disposed in the actuation structure and the housing tubewherein the optic fiber distal end is adjacent to the housing tubedistal end and wherein a portion of the optic fiber is fixed to thehousing tube.
 14. The instrument of claim 13 wherein a compression ofthe actuation structure is configured to curve the optic fiber.
 15. Theinstrument of claim 13 wherein a compression of the actuation structureis configured to curve the housing tube.
 16. The instrument of claim 13wherein a decompression of the actuation structure is configured tostraighten the optic fiber.
 17. The instrument of claim 13 wherein adecompression of the actuation structure is configured to straighten thehousing tube.
 18. The instrument of claim 13 further comprising: apiston having a piston distal end and a piston proximal end; and aninner hypodermic tube having an inner hypodermic tube distal end and aninner hypodermic tube proximal end wherein the inner hypodermic tubeproximal end is disposed in the piston.
 19. The instrument of claim 13further comprising: an outer sleeve having an outer sleeve distal endand an outer sleeve proximal end.
 20. The instrument of claim 19 furthercomprising: an actuation guide having an actuation guide distal end andan actuation guide proximal end wherein the actuation guide is disposedin the outer sleeve.